Rare Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)

Observation: Brown bears (Ursus arctos) rarely roam into Bethel and even long time residents say this is a rare event. Spring time means bears are waking up from a long winter and food resources for bears are pretty scarce. Dumpsters filled with garbage must be an irresistible temptation and probably draws animals into heavily populated areas like Bethel. Ben Balivet

Resources:

Alaska Department of Fish and Game – "Throughout Alaska, even in our state’s urban centers, humans share habitat with wild animals. Part of life for children who grow up in Alaska is learning how to act safely around potentially dangerous wildlife such as bears, moose and wolves. ADF&G offers lesson plans, posters, coloring books, and in some regions, classroom presentations, to help teach children and adults about wildlife safety." Source: ADF&G Wildlife Safety.

Alaska Geographic – Ballad of the Wild Bear - Teaching Guide, "This guide can help teachers use the book to encourage a bear-aware outlook in students. Target grades are K-4, but activities can be adapted for older students and many of the suggested resources include activities for students of all ages." Written by Ellen Wolf. Publisher, ©2004 Alaska Geographic Association